🧶It’s graffiti, but with yarn. Yarnfiti encourages creativity, teaches sewing skills at this Florida library

ORLANDO, Fla. – You’ve probably heard or even spotted graffiti around town. It’s usually something illicitly spray painted on a public building or wall.

But there’s a unique kind of graffiti that local libraries are welcoming it’s all part of a display they want you to come out and see for yourself.

It’s called ‘Yarnfiti.’

“Yarnfiti, the word itself was invented out of yarn – obviously – and graffiti,” said Orange County Library System Fiber Arts Instructor Stephanie Rodriguez.

Since 2017, OCLS has been displaying unique ‘Yarnfiti’ projects related to a specific theme. This year, it’s ‘enchanted forest.’

You’ll find everything from fairies to unicorns, mushrooms to flowers.

“It’s meant to be this really eye-catching, fun, whimsical display where you least expect it,” said Rodriguez.

This display is located at the Downtown Orlando branch of OCLS.

Over 230 pieces make up the display created from fiber products like crotchet, knitting, embroidery and even balloons.

It’s all a collaborative effort from OCLS members and staff across it’s 15 branches.

Many of the pieces were created at one of the library branches. The Downtown Orlando branch offers free classes and open labs, providing tools like sewing machines and instructors attracting customers like Veronica Washington.

“I don’t have a sewing machine, so I come in to use the equipment,” said Washington. “I’m new to sewing so it’s been a new adventure for me. I’m enjoying it because I’m able to be creative… As I finish my projects, it gives me a sense of fulfillment because you’re able to see the fruits of your labor.”

And you can check out the unique creations from customers and staff across OCLS branches on the second floor of the Orlando public library now through October 18th.

“Families will want to check out Yarnfiti just because of all the little surprises. Really one of the great things are all the tiny surprises. When you really walk into the forest, you start to see the little details,” said Rodriguez.

As always, sewing classes and exhibits like Yarnfiti are free with your library card. Click HERE for the list of sewing classes and click HERE for a list of other fiber arts classes at the different OCLS branches.